Position Title: Operations ManagerDepartment: Plywood FLSA Status: ExemptReports to: President 

Position Summary

This position’s primary responsibility is to ensure the safe and efficient operation of our plywood manufacturing facility, driving productivity, and maintaining high-quality standards. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in lean manufacturing principles and a proven track record in problem-solving disciplines. 

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

1. Leadership and Management:

   • Lead and manage a cross functional team consisting of production supervisors, engineers, logistics, and operators.

   • Provide clear direction, coaching, and mentorship to achieve operational excellence.

   • Foster a culture of continuous improvement, teamwork, and accountability.

2. Lean Manufacturing Implementation:

   • Implement lean manufacturing principles and methodologies to optimize production processes.

   • Identify opportunities for waste reduction, process optimization, and efficiency improvements.

   • Lead initiatives such as 5S, value stream mapping, and Kaizen events to drive continuous improvement.

3. Production Planning and Scheduling:

   • Develop production plans and schedules to meet customer demand while optimizing resource utilization.

   • Monitor production metrics and KPIs to ensure targets are met or exceeded.

   • Implement strategies to minimize downtime and maximize throughput.

4. Quality Assurance:

   • Collaborate with quality assurance to maintain high-quality standards throughout the manufacturing process.

   • Implement robust quality control measures to prevent defects and non-conformities.

   • Investigate root causes of quality issues and implement corrective actions.

   • Work directly with customers regarding their quality concerns 

5. Supply Chain Management:

   • Ensure timely availability of raw materials and components.

   • Optimize inventory levels to minimize holding costs while ensuring uninterrupted production.

   • Establish and maintain processes that insure on-time delivery to customers.

6. Health, Safety, and Environmental Compliance:

   • Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and environmental regulations and standards.

   • Promote a culture of safety awareness and adherence to best practices.

   • Implement measures to minimize risks and hazards in the workplace.

7. Cost Control:

   • Ensuring cost-effective utilization of resources.

   • Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Operations Management, or related field. 

• Proven experience in operations management within a manufacturing environment, preferably in plywood or wood products industry.

• Strong background in lean manufacturing principles and methodologies.

• Excellent problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach.

• Leadership qualities with the ability to motivate and inspire teams.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

• Knowledge of health, safety, and environmental regulations.

• Lean Six Sigma certification is a plus.